What are long-term care hospitals? - Medicare

Revised June 2019

What are Long-Term Care Hospitals?

Most people who need inpatient hospital services are admitted to an "acutecare" hospital for a relatively short stay. But some people may need a longer hospital stay. Long-term care hospitals (LTCHs) are certified as acutecare hospitals, but LTCHs focus on patients who, on average, stay more than 25 days. Many of the patients in LTCHs are transferred there from an intensive or critical care unit. LTCHs specialize in treating patients who may have more than one serious condition, but who may improve with time and care, and return home. LTCHs generally give services like respiratory therapy, head trauma treatment, and pain management.

Do LTCHs provide long-term care?

No. Long-term care usually refers to care that's basically custodial, like help with feeding or dressing, even if there's some health care given. Medicare doesn't cover this kind of care, which can be given in your own home or in facilities, like assisted living facilities. LTCHs are hospitals that give inpatient services to people who need a much longer stay to get well.

Do I pay more in a LTCH than in an acutecare hospital?

Generally, no. Under Medicare, you're only responsible for one deductible for any benefit period. A benefit period begins the day you're admitted to a hospital or skilled nursing facility (SNF), and ends when you haven't gotten any inpatient care in a hospital or SNF for 60 days in a row. This applies whether you're in an acute care hospital or a LTCH. You don't have to pay a second deductible for your care in a LTCH if: ? You're transferred to a LTCH directly from an acutecare hospital. ? You're admitted to a LTCH within 60 days of being discharged from an

inpatient hospital stay.

Do I pay more in a LTCH than in an acutecare hospital? (continued)

If you're admitted directly to the LTCH more than 60 days after any previous hospital stay, you would pay the same deductibles and coinsurance as you would if you were being admitted to an acutecare hospital.

Note: If you have Original Medicare and a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy, some of your deductible or coinsurance costs may be covered. If you're in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), you may have different ways to pay for care, so you should contact your plan for more information.

For more information about Medicare, visit , or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.

You have the right to get Medicare information in an accessible format, like large print, Braille, or audio. You also have the right to file a complaint if you feel you've been discriminated against. Visit about-us/accessibilitynondiscrimination-notice, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for more information. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.

Paid for by the Department of Health & Human Services.

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CMS Product No. 11347

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